Heck, ever since this one has been planned I've been planning for my FAL to be a flag holder. Muzzle up (i.e. perfectly vertical), action open, 1/4" dowel sticking 3 feet out with flags on it. No way anyone would be swept, otherwise they'd end up with a wooden dowel in their face! Yes, I realize it means standing the whole time, lugging the weight of that rifle on one shoulder. No putting it down, no shifting it. If it really gets to me, worst case scenario is I walk back to my vehicle and put it away. I've been out on 3+ mile hiking trips where I've carried a rifle in case of a bear or something, so I know how heavy it can get after such a short distance (compared to others who have hiked far longer). I'd still love to go through with my idea, it's something I've had the materials for and means of doing for a while. I'd hate to see that effort go to waste.